Marijuana possession charges can cause serious anxiety and require you to take quick action. Despite shifting public opinions regarding marijuana, Florida still treats possession seriously. If you have been charged with this crime, it is important to know that this is just a speed bump you will one day look back at in your rearview mirror.
Legal support from an experienced drug defense attorney can make all the difference in these situations. Contact a Key Largo marijuana possession lawyer today for help handling these charges.
Recreational marijuana use is illegal in Florida, though medical marijuana is legal under certain conditions. Possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana is a misdemeanor, meaning those convicted face up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana is a felony that comes with up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Even small amounts of marijuana can result in a criminal record, and several situations can lead to these charges. For instance, Key Largo tourists may assume marijuana is legal, or individuals may find themselves on a boat with others who have marijuana in their possession.
In some cases, a charge is the result of a total misunderstanding. For instance, an officer may smell marijuana during a traffic stop and mistakenly assume it is coming from the wrong vehicle.
A Key Largo attorney could examine the circumstances surrounding your marijuana possession charge to determine what penalties you may be facing. The most common penalties associated with marijuana possession include fines, jail time, probation, and license suspension. These are generally the shorter-term consequences people face for this offense, but simply having a criminal record can be highly detrimental. A history of drug possession could cause difficulties in finding housing and seeking new employment. Cannabis-related charges can also affect professional licenses for those who work in occupations such as teaching or nursing.
A lawyer in Key Largo can provide several legal defenses for marijuana possession claims. They may assert that violations of your Fourth Amendment rights led to the unlawful search and seizure of evidence. In some cases, a lawyer may argue that you are in compliance with medical marijuana patient rules and were wrongfully charged despite having a legal prescription.
Some cases call for mitigation strategies. For example, a lawyer may argue for substance abuse treatment in exchange for a reduced penalty, or a pre-trial diversion program to avoid a criminal record altogether. Lawyers can also negotiate plea deals to lessen consequences.
You can count on the team at Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC to offer strong, confident protection of your rights. We understand local procedures and the goals of judges and prosecutors in Monroe County and work hard to craft tailored defense strategies for each case we handle. Your attorney will listen, keep in touch, and fight for positive results.
Are you ready to fight for your rights? Call our firm to talk to a Key Largo marijuana possession lawyer. During a consultation, we will have a judgment-free conversation focused on understanding the case and identifying your needs. You do not have to go to court alone.
